Trump Unleashes New Round of Global Tariffs With August Deadline

In a sweeping move aimed at reshaping U.S. trade relationships, President Donald Trump has unveiled a new set of tariffs targeting nearly a dozen countries, with levies ranging from 25% to 40%. The new duties, which take effect August 1, are part of Trump’s broader “reciprocal tariffs” initiative, placing pressure on nations that he says have benefited from one-sided trade deals.

Among the hardest hit are Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand, with tariffs set at 25% or higher. Laos and Myanmar top the list with 40% levies, while South Africa and Bosnia will see 30% duties. Trump also warned that products transshipped through third-party countries would face a 40% penalty, although how that rule would be enforced remains unclear. In contrast, U.S. exports to countries like Vietnam — with which Trump recently struck a trade framework — will reportedly face zero tariffs.

The White House framed the move as a response to what Trump called “far from reciprocal” relationships. While many of the announced rates align with those previewed back in April, the formal letters now give trade partners until early August to negotiate or face the consequences. With global markets on edge and more tariff announcements expected, the message is clear: the U.S. is doubling down on its protectionist agenda — and the clock is ticking.